Bahrain Moves to Enable ID Cards as Travel Documents

TDT | Manama
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

In a significant move towards advancing Bahrain’s digital transformation, His Excellency Interior Minister General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Chairman of the Ministerial Committee for Information and Communications Technology, inaugurated three strategic projects at the Information & eGovernment Authority on Friday. The launch took place during his visit to the authority, accompanied by ICT committee members and senior officials.

During the visit, HE the Interior Minister emphasized that the introduction of innovative digital technologies and the facilitation of secure government services reflect Bahrain’s progressive and creative approach. He credited these advancements to the comprehensive national development process led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and supported by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. He further highlighted Bahrain’s standing among the leading nations in the United Nations E-Government Development Index, attributing it to the country’s commitment to digital transformation and enhanced government service efficiency.

As part of these initiatives, HE the Interior Minister directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nationality, Passports, and Residence Affairs (NPRA) to coordinate efforts for enabling ID cards to function as travel documents. This initiative involves integrating information between ID cards and passports while engaging with other countries for their recognition as valid travel credentials.

A key highlight of the visit was the inauguration of the new self-service center, aligned with the government’s 2023-2026 digital transformation strategy. The center features six self-service platforms that provide various government services, including identity data updates and electronic payment options, ensuring accessibility and convenience for citizens around the clock.

HE the Interior Minister also inspected the progress of the ID Card Service Centre and received a briefing on the ID card development phases. The newly introduced advanced ID card incorporates cutting-edge technology, enhanced security features, and a modernized design that aligns with international standards.

Furthering Bahrain’s commitment to innovation, the minister inaugurated a pioneering national laboratory dedicated to developing prototypes for government solutions. This innovation lab aims to foster creativity within the public sector, enhance technical capabilities, build national expertise, and strengthen Bahrain’s position as a regional leader in emerging technologies. Among its key initiatives is the enhancement of the “Tawasul” system using artificial intelligence to improve service efficiency.

Concluding his visit, HE the Interior Minister commended the Information & eGovernment Authority for its milestones in digital transformation and its continued efforts to provide efficient and reliable e-services for citizens and residents. He acknowledged the pivotal role of these projects in strengthening Bahrain’s technological advancements and expressed gratitude to the authority’s CEO and teams for their innovative contributions to the nation’s digital progress.